Lithuania has no plans to introduce French-style mobile phone ban at schools

Lithuania's Ministry of Education and Science says it has no plans to introduce a national ban on mobile phones at schools, leaving the right for schools to decide themselves on this issue.

Meanwhile, psychologists say a discussion on such a ban is necessary. France has recently introduced restrictions on the use of smartphones, tablets and other devices for schoolchildren under 14-15.

"We have no plans to ban mobile phones at schools any time soon," the ministry told BNS Lithuania, adding that schools themselves can decide on any restrictions. Some schools have already introduced bans on using mobile phones during classes.

Education and Science Minister Jurgita Petrauskienė told BNS Lithuania last week that smart devices should only be used during classes for educational purposes only. She also added that mobile use restrictions at schools are in place not only in France but also other EU member states but some of them have specific laws and others have school-level agreements.

"This discussion is really ongoing in Lithuania, but I think we need to agree with the whole community. The opinion of teachers, children and also their partners is very important here. We have to consult, discuss and look into whether we are ready for such a decision," Petrauskienė said.